How and Why to Cook a Turkey in a Crockpot

Reasons why you want to use a crockpot to cook the perfect turkey.

5 Reasons to Use a Crockpot for Turkey Breast

Crockpot for Turkey Delicious Meat

Here are five reasons why you want to use a crockpot to cook the perfect turkey breasts

 

1) Turkey is juicier when cooked in a crockpot.

Turkey is a delicious and nutritious bird that we can cook in many different ways. One of the most popular methods of cooking turkey is in a crock pot. This cooking method is not only convenient, but it can also help to retain the bird's natural juices, making it juicier and more flavorful.

crockpot for turkey breasts and gravy on a plate

When cooking turkey in a crock pot, it is crucial to use the right size pot. A turkey that is too large for the crock pot will not cook evenly and may be difficult to remove once it is done. It is also recommended to choose a crock pot with a removable insert so the turkey can be easily lifted out when it is finished cooking.

2) Adapt the Cook time to your schedule

The beauty of using a slow cooker is that you can program it, and the meat will be ready whenever you want. There are many benefits to cooking turkey in a crock pot. This cooking method is convenient and hands-off, allowing the cook to prepare other dishes or take care of other tasks while the turkey cooks. 

The cook time for a turkey in a crock pot will vary depending on the bird's size and the pot's wattage. A general rule of thumb is to cook the turkey on low for six to eight hours or on high for three to four hours. If the turkey is stuffed, it will take longer to cook.

It makes a great holiday meal when cooked in a crock pot. 

3) Crockpot Turkey Juices make delicious gravy.

Once the turkey is cooked, it can be removed from the crock pot and carved. The juices from the crock pot can be used to make a delicious gravy.

Crock pot cooking also helps to retain the bird's natural juices, making it juicier and more flavorful.

A turkey breast cooked in a crock pot is delicious and easy to prepare. It is also very healthy because it contains no added fat.

juicy slow cooker turkey breast with gravy carrots potatoes

4) The turkey meat stays moist thanks to the slow cooker.

Another benefit of cooking turkey in a crock pot is that it can help to keep the meat moist, and it is especially important if you are cooking leaner turkey breast. The slow cooking process allows the juices from the turkey to seep into the meat, keeping it moist and tender.

When cooking a frozen turkey, it is essential to defrost it before cooking. Place the turkey in the refrigerator for 24 hours or submerge it in cold water for several hours. It is important to cook the turkey immediately after it is defrosted to prevent bacteria from growing.

When cooking a turkey in a crock pot, seasonings are essential to flavor the meat. You can do this by rubbing the turkey with a spice rub or adding herbs and spices to the crock pot.

juicy turkey in a crockpot

5) Crock pot turkey cooking is quite forgiving.

Another benefit of making turkey in a crock pot is that it is a very forgiving cooking method. If you forget to check on the turkey or if the power goes out, the turkey will still be cooked through and will not be dry or overcooked.

Is there a downside to slow-cooking a turkey?

One downside of cooking turkey in a crock pot is that you will not get the crispy skin you would if you roast the turkey in the oven. If you want crisp skin, try placing the turkey in the crock pot skin-side up for the last hour of cooking on high.

Another drawback of crock pot cooking is that it can be challenging to brown the turkey. If you want a nicely browned turkey, try searing it in a pan before adding it to the crock pot.

Overall, cooking turkey in a crock pot is a convenient and hassle-free way to cook a delicious and juicy bird. You can have a perfectly cooked, moist, and flavorful turkey with some planning.

Crockpot for Turkey Breast

To Recap:

Using a slow cooker to prepare the turkey offers several beneficial results. Cooking in a slow cooker helps preserve the bird's natural juices, resulting in a dish that is both juicy and tasty. It is necessary to let a frozen turkey thaw before cooking it if you plan on using it. Because bacteria can proliferate after being defrosted, it is essential to cook the turkey as soon as it is removed from the freezer. Seasonings are necessary to impart flavor to a turkey that has been slow-cooked in a crock pot.

Cooking in a slow cooker is a method that is exceptionally forgiving if you forget to check on the turkey or if the power goes out while you are cooking. Because it does not have any additional fat, turkey breast that has been slow-cooked in a crock pot is delicious and simple.